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Resilience And The Leopard Print Muff

The definition of resilience is an ability to recover from or adjust to misfortune or change. I view resilience as one of the key qualities to embrace as I age. Every week brings change, some small and some overwhelming. “I can’t do anything about it, so I’m moving forward,” is a phrase that runs through my thoughts frequently as the weeks, months and years unfold..

The muff, which hasn’t had resilience as an accessory choice over the years, is athick,tubularcaseforthehands,coveredwithfurorothermaterial, usedbywomenforwarmthandasahandbag.

It was introduced to women’s fashion in the 16th century and was popular with both men and women in the 17th and 18th centuries. By the early 20th century, muffs were used in England only by women. The muff largely fell out of style in the 19th century. It briefly returned in the late 1940s and 1950s

I don’t remember the last time that I saw someone wearing a muff as an accessory. Today I’m bringing back the muff, which keeps my hands warm on a chilly day around the periphery of the Denver Botanic Gardens.

This vintage faux fur beauty was discovered at an estate sale years ago, and though it was probably created in the 1940’s, its leopard print fabric remains intact and has proven to be resilient. It keeps my hands warm during a chilly day, it carries my lipstick in its satin lined interior folds and it playfully swings when I walk.

Photos By Daniel

This isn’t the only muff that waits patiently in the hat room, next to the headwear that gets more action. They are calling to me to consider their unique function and allure as a choice for a seasonal accessory!

I agree…when faced with issues that arise that are beyond our control our only choice is to keep moving forward, difficult as that might seem. Constantly creating “new normals” is a way of life as we age.

Oh Judith, what a fabulous accessory! I do love the look, convenience, and appeal of a vintage muff. And you are absolutely stunning in this bright yellow cape with the leopard accents keeping it all so true to your impeccable taste! As for resilience, I find that it is a key quality to survive this life with a smile on our faces! That which we cannot control, we should not try to control. Adjusting ourselves to the ways of the world and all that life throws at us is the best way to enjoy a fulfilled and rewarding life, indeed! Another glorious post, my friend!

YOU JUST GAVE ME A BRILLIANT IDEA!I need an evening bag of sorts a smaller version of my handbag for a few PARTIES I will attending OUT OF STATE!MY MUFF COLLECTION is PERFECT!!!!!There is a zipper for Credit cards and $$ and the LIPSTICK!TRA LA……..STYLE CRONE youSAVED me some money!!!!!!NO need to BUY something as I have the perfect BAG in a MUFF!
XX

I bought a mouton muff at a vintage store when I was in my 20’s because I thought it was so beautiful (and very inexpensive), but I quickly found it wasn’t very practical. I love the idea of them, but not the reality.

Beautiful mix of the yellow and leopard print. Every outfit you put together is a winner Judith.

Whatever you wear, it always looks splendid. Elegant, never outdated. You even manage to make a muff look cool. However do you do that?
Love the leopard items but certainly also that yellow jacket.
Greetje